Former Luton Town Trialist invited for pre-season with Ryman League Club
Dan Parkinson, 22, has been invited to pre-season with Chipstead Football Club, following a successful football trial with us earlier this month. The forward was contacted by the Ryman League clubs Manager, Craig Tanner, after he attended our trial in West London and caught the eye.
When we caught up with Dan, who stands at 6ft and weighs 13 stone, after he found out the good news, he said: "The week after the trials, UK Football Trials called me and told me of the interest from Chipstead which is always positive but I didn't feel as If I gave my best performance on the day, but I'm grateful for the opportunity."
He added: "I got another call from the First Team Manager who said he is looking to get me in for pre-season. So yeah it's encouraging because the semi pro route is what I'm aiming for next season. It's a while away yet but the plan is to keep working hard and keep my options open and hopefully sign for the right club. I was at Luton for a couple of weeks but it didn't work out so now i'm looking for regular first team football, I've been around non-league for a while but nothing has been permanent so it'll be good to get a full season under my belt wherever I end up!"
Dan, who has attended UK Football Trials several times in the past and has gone on to land trials with both Luton Town and Grays Athletic, gave his thoughts on the trials procedure.
"Yeah, I've been to a lot of the football trials, it's always good coming back though because the door is always open and more importantly the right people will be in attendance, you've just got to do the right the things and play your natural game.
"I would say to any player who is looking for a club, especially older players like my age because it can be very tough the older you get, to give UK Football Trials a call and get yourself involved, they've been great with me since my first trial here. Of course and I still do recommend people, UK Football Trials is a brilliant platform at the end of the day and if you're good enough you'll get your chance."